Viper 2

Viper Mk II
Maximum gross mass	15t
Empty mass	67t
Payload	52t
Main thruster accel	25.2g
Retro thruster accel	11.1g
Gun mountings	1
Missiles	4
Crew	1
Hyperdrive ranges	Class 1:4.47 Class 2:17.91 Class 3:40.29
Standard drive	Class 2
Fuel scoop	yes

Overview

Building on the success of their hugely successful Viper, Faulcon de Lacy once again broke into new ground in 3248 with the release of the Viper Mk II

Weighing in at almost twice the weight of the original, the Mk II has improved forward and retro thrusters yet comes with a similar price tag.

Notable Features

Like many of the new ships, built in the era of three super powers (The Federation, Empire and Alliance), the Viper Mk II comes with long, beautifully swept wings. Unlike the Saker, the Viper Mk II has backwards sweeping wings, graciously curving backwards into two rear stabiliser talons

The rest of the ship adheres to traditional design principles with a sharp, prism shaped super structure.

Disadvantages

In order to increase speed despite huge increases in weight, sacrifices had to be made in the design of the Mk II. these came in the form of a very thin hull, only slightly heavier than that of the original Viper Defence Craft, despite the almost doubling in overall weight. A shield generator is definetly a pre-requisite for any pilot who is looking for trouble in one of these ships.

Verdict

the Mk II is fast, agile and has enough bulk to carry a good amount of offensive and defensive weaponry and a bit of spare space for a cargo run on the side. Any pilot can feel comfortable and safe behind the controls of one of these. In the end however, the ship is limited by its size; A pilot looking for real danger would be better prepared with a larger, more powerful vessel.